Digital Resources for Kids and Families

Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame

(Available in English and Spanish)

Can your little one turn into a mini-monster when faced with everyday challenges like getting dressed, saying goodbye, or waiting their turn? Sesame Street’s Breathe, Think, Do app will give you and your child a three-step strategy to work through big feelings. Children help a friendly monster take deep breaths, think of plans, and try them out by tapping the monster’s belly, popping bubbles, and making choices! We love that this app introduces important feeling words – frustrated, impatient, disappointed – and a simple breathing technique that can be used in any situation. Be sure to check out the parent section, which has even more tips and strategies, as well as an option to record your own encouraging messages.

For: Ages 2-5
Where: Download free for iOS, android, and amazon devices
What: Interactive app that teaches self-regulation and problem-solving skills.

Day by Day Ohio

Help keep your little ones busy and learning all year long with Day By Day Ohio. Each day the website features new songs, activities, book suggestions, and videos based on a theme. You can stick to the day’s activities or jump around the calendar. July will explore music and movement and August is all about using your imagination! Additional resources on health and wellness, family literacy, arts and crafts, and ideas for exploring Ohio are also provided.

For: Ages 0-5
Where: Visit the Day by Day Ohio Family Literacy Calendar website.
What: Early-learning activity and resource calendar for families.

Family Connections Baby & Me Virtual Meetings

Family Connections is continuing its goal to strengthen families and communities by offering Baby and Me meet ups using Zoom each Wednesday morning at 10:00am. Baby & Me is for families with babies 0-12 months and is an informal, intentional conversation session around child development. Adults will meet other caregiver, and find support from each other and the Family Connections educator. Sign up for the Family Connections newsletter and follow their Facebook page for more activities for families.

For: Families with babies 0-12 months
Where: Wednesdays, 10:00am – 12:00pm, using Zoom, email ebarrett@familyconnections1.org for more.
What: Virtual meet up for adults with new babies to learn about child development and make connections with other families.

Ready4K

Ready4K is a research based, texting service designed for kids birth through 4th grade with the goal of encouraging quality, at home learning. Age appropriate activities and early learning tips that support a child’s growth and strengthen family bonds are sent via text each week. Parents and caregivers can now sign up for free through Kids’ Book Bank Cleveland.

For: Ages 0-10
Where: Simply text “Cleveland” to 70831 or fill out the online form at Kids’ Book Bank.
What: Age appropriate family activity ideas delivered to your phone via text.

VROOM

Vroom offers daily “brain-building” tips that help parents and caregivers turn everyday moments into learning opportunities. Featured activities are age-specific and can easily be carried out alongside everyday routines, such as bathtime, mealtime, or walks around the block. Each tip is paired with a “Brainy Background” that explains what skills your child is learning. Families have access to over 1,000+ Vroom tips organized by topic and activity (such as Take Turns and Getting Dressed), and can add multiple children to their account to receive personalized tips for each child.

For: Ages 0-5
Where: You can create a Vroom account on vroom.org, download the free App to your Android, Apple, or Kindle Fire device, or sign up here to receive your daily tip via text.
What: Fast and fun tips to boost your child’s learning

Art for Kids Hub

Have a budding artist in your midst? Or simply looking for a fast and fun creative outlet? The Art for Kids Hub provides hundreds of videos that teach kids (and their adults) how to draw, fold, paint, and sculpt to their heart’s content. The ever encouraging and cheerful Rob Jensen completes each project alongside his kids while you follow along at home. Learn how to draw your favorite Disney or Fortnite character, fold an origami shirt card for Father’s Day, or fingerpaint a hedgehog. Projects require only a few art supplies and many are suitable for “super young artists” 2 and up!

For: Grades PreK-8
Where: Follow their Youtube Channel or visit their website
What: Addictive, how-to videos for simple art projects

Babbel

Babbel, a popular language learning app, is offering three months free for students kindergarten through college. Babbel courses are designed by linguists and are available in 13 different languages. Short lessons with interactive dialogue, practical phrases and vocabulary, and final reviews help with retention and allow students to immerse themselves in a new language.

For: K-College students
Where: Register an account at Babbel and access on mobile or desktop devices.
What: Guided courses that help students learn a new language or maintain language skills.

BrainPOP and BrainPOP Jr.

BrainPop is an educational website that creates curriculum-based, digital content for K-8 students. Lessons begin with a short, animated video and are accompanied by interactive quizzes, extension activities, and games. Videos feature a relatable and engaging cast, including a beloved orange robot named Moby. BrainPop is designed for grades 4-8 and BrainPOP Jr. targets grades K-3. There are Spanish and French versions, as well as an option for English Language Learners.

For: Grades K-8
Where: Create an account here.
What: An animated educational website covering a variety of topics.

Camp Khan Kids

Delight in a camp like experience through the month of July with Camp Khan Kids, no tents or overnight bags needed! The creators of the highly rated Khan Academy Kids app have curated a self-paced weekly schedule to enhance at-home exploration. Every Monday in July adults signed up for the free app will receive an email detailing the theme of the week and 5 activities per day that encourage reading, learning, and playing. Weekly themes include water, music, arts, and animals, so there should be something for everyone to enjoy. With plenty of readings, songs, games, and playful ideas to choose from, families can participate in camp in whatever ways work best for them!

For: Ages 2-7
Where: The Khan Academy Kids app is free for Amazon, Apple, and Android devices. Register for a free parent account to get information about Camp Khan Kids.
What: Themed weekly early learning activities sent to app users to help families continue learning, growing, and playing while at home.

#CampYouTube

YouTube is creating a lot of happy campers this summer with their free virtual summer camp! At #CampYouTube kids can learn how to identify Poison Ivy, train with NBA and WNBA players, take a virtual field trip to Machu Picchu, and make camp-worthy snacks and crafts right at home! Camps are organized by theme (Arts, Sports, STEM, and Adventure) and split into two age groups: teen and children under 13. Create your own schedule or use a #CampYouTube Bingo Board to guide your experience.

For: Grades K-12
Where: Learn@Home a YouTube learning hub
What: Virtual summer camp YouTube style!

Center for Arts-Inspired Learning: Artworks Challenge

Staff from the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning have created a 15 day online art challenge for kids ages 5-18 to promote creativity and self expression. A total of 15 artsy activities are provided and a variety of formats are encouraged – sing it, dance it, make it, snap it, write it. Kid artists will consider important themes of family, community, and self expression while making connections to math, science, and other school subjects. Each activity is adapted for three different age groups: Beginner (5-8), Intermediate (9-13), Advanced (14-18). Another bonus of this resource is that it is archived for use at any time. Try 15 days in a row or tackle one a week, it fits seamlessly into your schedule.

For: Ages 5-18
Where: Visit the Artworks Challenge website and follow #Artworkschallenge on Tik Tok, Facebook, and YouTube for finished projects and more ideas.
What: 15 art activities and prompts that inspire and nourish creativity and connect to classroom subjects.

Children’s Museum of Cleveland

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland has a ton of content for families and children available on their Facebook page, @CMCCleveland, and across social media channels. They are sharing books, modeling science experiments, and providing hands-on projects that encourage kids to play, explore, and grow while at home.

For: Grades Prek-3
Where: Children’s Museum Facebook page @CMCCleveland, Instagram @cmc_cleveland.
What: CMC staff share books, crafts, and play ideas for at home learning and fun.

Cleveland Metroparks Ten to Explore

The Metroparks make it easy to get out of the house with the fun challenge Ten to Explore presented by Wayside Furniture. Each month ten parks or activities are highlighted to encourage people to opt for outside exploration. Tag any photos on social media with #TentoExplore for a chance to win a special prize pack. July’s theme is Ten to Stay Active and includes golfing, wildflower hunting, and learning outdoor skills. Cleveland Metroparks are following safety guidelines and encourage all visitors to practice safe distancing and hygiene. Check their website for updates on reservation, program, and nature center hours and closures.

For: All ages
Where: Cleveland Metroparks reservations, golf courses, marinas, and the Zoo.
What: Activities for families and people of all ages to inspire outside exploration of all that the Cleveland Metroparks have to offer.

Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism

Sesame Street and CNN teamed up for another town hall, this time on racism. Big Bird joins CNN commentator Van Jones and CNN anchor and national correspondent Erica Hill to moderate a discussion around race for kids and families. Experts and your favorite Sesame Street characters will answer questions submitted by viewers with a focus on race, the recent protests, and empathy. Elmo and his Dad, Louie, give a great example of how to have a frank conversation about racism and recent protests with young children especially for those families that are not used to exploring the topic. The town hall originally aired Saturday, June 6 and is now available for streaming anytime.

For: Ages 0-10
Where: Coming Together: Standing Up to Racism full town hall on the CNN website and CNN apps. Previous town hall: ABCs of Covid19.
What: Question and answer segment on race and racism with CNN and Sesame Street.

Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants

Put on a belt and buckle up! The scientists and explorers of EBTSOYP are sharing exciting, live adventures and explorations of the Earth’s wonders via YouTube daily. In the SciComm series leading scientists share exciting stories from their careers and explain how they got into their field. Episodes include stories from SpaceGal Emily Calandrelli, Raven the Science Maven, and Hip Hop M.D. Maynard Okereke. Other upcoming lessons include bats at the Toronto Zoo, surviving the outdoors, and an Arctic expedition. Videos are on the longer side, we recommend spreading your investigation over multiple days. Explore the earth while safely social distancing at home!

For: Grades 4 and up
Where: Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants
What: In depth videos, interviews, and tours focused on a variety of science topics from specific animals to air pollution.

Grab the Mic: Tell Your Story with Jason Reynolds

Let your voice be heard! Award winning author and National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Jason Reynolds’ newest initiative is designed to inspire students’ self expression. In collaboration with the Library of Congress, the Children’s Book Council, and Every Child a Reader, the video series, “Write. Right. Rite, ” will feature Reynolds talking directly to youth and providing prompts and activities to promote creative self expression. Videos will be posted every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30am and will be archived in multiple places.

For: Grades K-12
Where: Available at the Library of Congress Grab the Mic Resources Guide and on the LOC’s social media pages – @LibraryCongress.
What: Weekly videos featuring author Jason Reynolds that encourage students to share their own stories and stretch their imagination through creative self expression.

Great Lakes Science Center Curiosity Corner Live

The Great Lakes Science Center has created dynamic virtual programming to access at home with their new Curiosity Corner Live series. Exciting STEM-themed, live videos that will spark your child’s curiosity are posted daily at 10:30am and 3:00pm. Complete engineering challenges, explore science concepts, and visit new exhibits like Body Worlds RX all from your home.

For: Grades K-6
Where: Great Lakes Science Center on YouTube
What: Great Lakes Science Center staff demo science experiments, hands-on projects, and show off exhibits in daily videos.

Juneteenth Book Festival

You may discover your next favorite author or book at the virtual Juneteenth Book Festival celebrated on Friday, June 19. The online event, “seeks to use [the] day of jubilation to boost and celebrate Black American stories and the people behind them.” Dozens of writers and industry insiders, including Angie Thomas, take part in this virtual event organized by YA author, L.L. McKinney, and book publicist, Saraciea Fennell. A variety of genres are explored in panel form. Especially relevant is the, “The Kids are Alright,” panel featuring middle grade authors. “Things are hard right now, and my goal is that we take a moment to celebrate us during all of this,” said McKinney.

For: Ages 10 and up
Where: Videos are available on YouTube and for more content follow on Twitter @JuneteenthBkFst.
What: A virtual celebration of Black creators and Black American stories featuring authors and publishing staff discussing race, writing different genres, their careers, and other experiences.

KidLit Rally for Black Lives

Award-winning authors Kwame Alexander, Jason Reynolds, and Jacqueline Woodson organized a powerful live event, “KidLit Rally for Black Lives,” on June 4 in response to national events. The Brown Bookshelf, devoted to promoting and sharing Black stories by Black creators, hosted the rally on their Facebook page. The rally, a call to action against racism and police brutality, features a variety of authors and creators using their voices to inspire and empower. The organizers intend the program to, “unite [families] in support of Black lives, speak to children about this moment, answer their questions, and offer ideas about steps we can all take going forward.” The first hour is directed towards children while the rest is aimed at adults and educators. As Alexander states, “We show our children that they have a voice and that it matters, by using ours. This is not a time for silence. Our words have never mattered more.”

For: Grades K-12
Where: The Brown Bookshelf Facebook and YouTube pages, a more in depth review can be found at Publisher’s Weekly.
What: Children’s authors and creators discuss race and identity and speak out in support of Black lives.

The Kids Should See This

The Kids Should See This is a growing library of 4,300+ kid-friendly videos that focus on STEAM, history, culture, and the natural world. Videos are hand selected by creator Rion Nakaya with the help of her 9 and 12 year-old children. Around 10-15 videos are added each week, including a new series relating to the 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), so be sure to check back often.

For: PreK—Adult
How to use: Search keywords or browse by category (science, art, food, DIY, etc.) and by tags located under each video. Subscribe to get the 7 most-shared videos delivered to your inbox each week.
What: A curated collection of smart videos for curious minds of all ages.

Making Space with Christian Robinson

Award winning author and illustrator Christian Robinson has a distinctive art style. His colorful cut paper and collage style can be found in Rain by Linda Ashman, Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena, and in his newest book, You Matter. Now, he is inviting you to join in to make something together in his video series, “Making Space.” Videos are under 10 minutes and ask viewers to explore different emotions and ideas like anger, anticipation, and maps. The anger project encourages the creation of an iceberg of emotions to explore feelings under the surface. Robinson has a knack for sharing big ideas, big emotions in a frank and appropriate way for children and provides a way for them to explore those concepts creatively.

For: ages 4 and up
Where: Christian Robinson’s YouTube channel, his personal website for more about his books, and read this interview for more about his process and art.
What: A video series run by author-illustrator Christian Robinson that invites viewers to explore their own creativity and emotions. In his own words, “let’s make space for fun, make space for creativity, and make space together.”

@MediaWise

MediaWise is a digital literacy project started by the nonprofit journalism and research organization the Poynter Institute with a goal to teach teenagers to identify fact from fiction on the internet. Follow the project on social media platforms Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter – @MediaWise – for a breakdown on the accuracy of tweets, images, claims and news. Teens can even learn skills from their own peers, 18 students from around the country serve as teen fact-checkers for the project by sharing videos on how to debunk and identify misinformation. There is also a 10-part crash course, Navigating Digital Information, that teaches tips and tricks for using the internet critically.

Ages: 12 and up
Where: Follow @MediaWise on social media platforms Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.
What: Digital literacy project teaching teens how to identify misinformation on the internet.

Netflix US YouTube channel

You can add FREE Netflix documentaries to the long list of reasons we love our teachers! Thanks to them, Netflix has released ten select documentary films and docuseries that will help keep us educated and entertained while we “Stay Home”. Explore nature (Our Planet), get inspired (Zion Clark; Abstract) or motivated to make change (Knock Down the House; Chasing Coral) from wherever you can stream–no subscriptions required! Don’t miss out on the bonus educational material Netflix has provided, including discussion guides, creator Q&As, and links to other resources.

For: Ages 6+
Where: Stream the full playlist here
What: Free-streaming Netflix documentaries on YouTube

PCs for People

PCs for People is a national organization that provides affordable refurbished computers and low-cost internet service to qualified individuals and nonprofits. Low-income individuals, families with children, and people with disabilities are some groups that may be eligible. Individuals can also recycle some technology equipment that might be used for donations.

For: Individual recipients must be below the 200% poverty level or be currently enrolled in an income-based government assistance program. Check for eligibility and required documents here. Nonprofits may also be eligible.
Where: The Cleveland location is temporarily closed, but the online shop is open. For any questions call (216) 930-5741 between 10 am and 5 pm from Monday through Friday.
What: An organization that sells affordable computers and internet service to eligible individuals and nonprofits and accepts some technology for recycling.

San Diego Zoo Live Cams

From cuddly koalas to majestic elephants, the San Diego Zoo’s animal webcams offer real-time views of wildlife as they eat, play, snooze, and explore. Choose from twelve different animal cams–we can’t take our eyes of the Polar Cam– and settle in for some creature comfort.

For: All Ages
Where: Tune in at any time for a wild experience.
What: Animal live streams from the San Diego Zoo.

Scholastic Learn at Home

Scholastic has created four weeks of daily lesson plans that include access to ebooks, informational videos, and activity ideas for deeper exploration of topics. Lessons are broken up by grade level – PreK and Kindergarten, grades 1 and 2, grades 3-5, and grades 6-9. A daily reading quest for each level inspired by a reading of your child’s choice is available as an added bonus. Scholastic has made other media available as well including science flix, and materials from Dogman author Dav Pilkey.

For: PreK – 9th grade
Where: Scholastic Learn at Home
What: Daily projects and activities for preschool to 9th grade on various topics and access to Scholastic titles, videos, and more.

Sesame Street: Caring for Each Other

Sesame Street’s newest initiative is uniquely designed to support families during the Covid-19 crisis with a variety of free resources. Caring for Each Other offers new content weekly that encourages families to breathe, laugh, and play together. Messages from favorite Sesame Street characters like Elmo, Abby, and Grover comfort and entertain children. “Parent moments” are special videos just for caregivers that offer reassurance and remind adults to take care of themselves too. The free Sesame Street: Family Play app also emphasizes ways to play while at home. Games come in three categories Keep Busy, Move Your Body, Calm Down and can be adapted for any room at home.

For: Ages 0-8
Where: Caring for Each Other; The Sesame Street: Family Play app is available on iOS, android, and amazon devices; NPR’s Life Kit podcast’s May 12th episode features a Sesame Street developmental psychologist offering tips for parenting during this time.
What: Free games, activities, and videos featuring your favorite Sesame Street characters.

Wide Open School

Wide Open School is a new site established by Common Sense Media editors and features free content from 25 partner organizations such as Time for Kids, Khan Academy, Noggin, and NHSA. The collection of online experiences is meant to inspire and encourage at home learning for grades PreK-12. Interesting topics like life skills and emotional well being, as well as the regular school subjects allow families to choose their focus. Importantly there is also information on affordable internet service, tech devices, and food access.

For: Grades PreK-12
Where: Most of the content is available without creating an account, visit https://wideopenschool.org/ to get started.
What: A collection of online learning games, videos, and experiences from a variety of organizations to support students at home.

Center for Arts-Inspired Learning: Artworks Challenge

Staff from the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning have created a 15 day online art challenge for kids ages 5-18 to promote creativity and self expression. A total of 15 artsy activities are provided and a variety of formats are encouraged – sing it, dance it, make it, snap it, write it. Kid artists will consider important themes of family, community, and self expression while making connections to math, science, and other school subjects. Each activity is adapted for three different age groups: Beginner (5-8), Intermediate (9-13), Advanced (14-18). Another bonus of this resource is that it is archived for use at any time. Try 15 days in a row or tackle one a week, it fits seamlessly into your schedule.

For: Ages 5-18
Where: Visit the Artworks Challenge website and follow #Artworkschallenge on Tik Tok, Facebook, and YouTube for finished projects and more ideas.
What: 15 art activities and prompts that inspire and nourish creativity and connect to classroom subjects.

Children’s Museum of Cleveland

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland has a ton of content for families and children available on their Facebook page, @CMCCleveland, and across social media channels. They are sharing books, modeling science experiments, and providing hands-on projects that encourage kids to play, explore, and grow while at home.

For: Grades Prek-3
Where: Children’s Museum Facebook page @CMCCleveland, Instagram @cmc_cleveland.
What: CMC staff share books, crafts, and play ideas for at home learning and fun.

Family Connections Baby & Me Virtual Meetings

Family Connections is continuing its goal to strengthen families and communities by offering Baby and Me meet ups using Zoom each Wednesday morning at 10:00am. Baby & Me is for families with babies 0-12 months and is an informal, intentional conversation session around child development. Adults will meet other caregiver, and find support from each other and the Family Connections educator. Sign up for the Family Connections newsletter and follow their Facebook page for more activities for families.

For: Families with babies 0-12 months
Where: Wednesdays, 10:00am – 12:00pm, using Zoom, email ebarrett@familyconnections1.org for more.
What: Virtual meet up for adults with new babies to learn about child development and make connections with other families.

Great Lakes Science Center Curiosity Corner Live

The Great Lakes Science Center has created dynamic virtual programming to access at home with their new Curiosity Corner Live series. Exciting STEM-themed, live videos that will spark your child’s curiosity are posted daily at 10:30am and 3:00pm. Complete engineering challenges, explore science concepts, and visit new exhibits like Body Worlds RX all from your home.

For: Grades K-6
Where: Great Lakes Science Center on YouTube
What: Great Lakes Science Center staff demo science experiments, hands-on projects, and show off exhibits in daily videos.

PBS TV programming and ideaKids Newsletter

IdeaKids is an email newsletter sent out every day that helps to make educational connections to children’s favorite PBS shows. The newsletter shares resources and activities for all ages from PBS, PBS Kids, and ideastream. Our local PBS station, WVIZ, has also changed their broadcast schedule to accommodate children being at home during the day. Shows for children ages 3-8 will air daily from 7:00-9:00am and shows for ages 9 and older will air from 9:00am – 6:00pm.

For: Grades Prek-4
Where: WVIZ/PBS can be found via antenna, cable, satellite, YouTube TV, and streaming online. The daily TV schedule can be seen here.
Where: Fill out this online form to sign up for the ideaKids daily newsletter.
What: Educational television programming for ages 3-9 and an accompanying email newsletter connecting fun activities to popular PBS shows.

Cosmic Kids Yoga

Have you ever defeated Voldemort in warrior pose? Slipped into dolphin pose to escape shark infested waters? Tried to catch Pokémon or save Arendelle with your stellar yoga moves? Then you may need some Cosmic Kids Yoga in your life. Creator and host Jamie Amor combines yoga with storytelling and green screen animation for a yoga adventure like no other. Videos are organized into helpful playlists, including routines for beginning yogis, toddlers, or children looking to boost their confidence or calm down.

For: Ages 2-12
Where: The Cosmic Kids Yoga YouTube Channel
What: Yoga, stories, and fun!

Heights Library’s Storytime Favorites

Counting down the minutes until you can reunite with the library’s storytime crew? We are too! In the meantime, come dance and sing along to some of our favorite storytime songs.

• Glad to See You by Peter & Ellen Allard
• These Are My Glasses by Laurie Berkner
• One From the Left by Jim Gill
• What I Am by Will.i.am and the Sesame Street Muppets
• Super Silly Tango by Mr. Eric and Mr. Michael
• Silly Dance Contest by Jim Gill
• Disco Hippo by Caspar Babypants
• Baby Shark by Pinkfong
• Unicorn of the Sea by Emily Arrow
• Super Shaker Song by Culture Quenn
• Rocketship Run by Laurie Berkner
• All I Wanna Do is Dance by Kira Willey
• Moon Don’t Go by Ella Jenkins
• Flower Breath by Kira Willey
• Three Little Birds by Elizabeth Mitchell
• Bubble Rap by Casper Babypants

Laurie Berkner Breaks

Musician Laurie Berkner is the queen of music for preschoolers and she recognizes that we could all use some musical breaks at the moment. Most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays she is playing her band’s energetic, silly, and sweet songs live on Facebook at 10:00 am. Berkner Breaks encourage kids to sing along, dance along, and connect with music. Two of my favorites are, “Moon, moon, moon,” and “The Goldfish” both of which are accessible anytime on The Laurie Berkner Band YouTube channel.

For: Prek
Where: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays at 10:00am on Laurie Berkner’s Facebook page and anytime on the band YouTube channel.
What: Live kid’s music and sing-alongs led by well-loved musician Laurie Berkner.

Rock the Block with the Alphabet Rockers

Rock the Block all summer long with the intergenerational, hip-hop children’s music collective The Alphabet Rockers! The two-time Grammy nominees are hosting Free virtual hangouts and dance parties to connect with families and share their powerful message of inclusion, self-love, and social justice. Join the group’s founders Kaitlin and Tommy along with special guests every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday live at 7pm to reflect, dance, sing, beat-box, and get inspired.

For: Ages 6 and up
Where: Sign up for Rock the Block Zoom hangouts, check out their social justice podcast: So Get Me, or listen to a playlist free on their Youtube Channel.
What: Live, virtual hangouts with the Alphabet Rockers!

But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

On But Why: A Podcast For Curious Kids, host Jane Lindolm and producer Melody Bodette field questions from inquisitive children all over the world and find experts to help answer them. Recent episodes have addressed whether animals get married, what it’s like to be an adult, and the 2019 novel coronavirus (Sars-CoV-2). Adults can use their smartphone to record their child’s burning questions and send them (along with the child’s first name, age, and town) to questions@butwhykids.org

For: K-Adult
Where: Listen free on Vermont Public Radio , Kids Listen, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts.
What: An informative and entertaining podcast that will satisfy curious children and their adults.

Code Switch (for kids!)

The NPR podcast Code Switch is known for diving into difficult conversations about race and identity. While adults are their primary audience, many of their episodes can be used by families to initiate or expand upon conversations about race and racial inequality. To help grown-ups get started, the podcast’s team of multi-racial journalists have put together a playlist of 19 kid-friendly Code Switch episodes, including discussions on voluntary school integration programs (past and present), race and identity in comics, the legacy of Dora the Explorer, and pandemic-related xenophobia against Asian Americans. Read more about the team’s favorite episodes for kids or check out the complete list on Spotify.

For: Ages 8 and up
Where: Listen free here, check out the playlist on Spotify, or look for individual episodes on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts
What: Kid-friendly conversations about race, culture, and social justice curated by Code Switch.

Eat Your Spanish!

Kids learn Spanish through fun games, delightful sing-alongs, and comical stories with this interactive podcast. Lessons focus on a theme–family, feelings, pets, colors–and teach three to four related Spanish words. Listeners can practice what they learned in mini follow-up episodes. Hosts Evan and Vanessa (Montessori inspired educators and musicians) radiate joy and positivity, creating a heartwarming learning experience. The ease and playfulness of Eat Your Spanish! will have children and their adults clamoring for second helpings!

For: Grades PreK-3
Where: Listen free on Kids Listen, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts
What: A Spanish learning podcast for kids and families.

KidNuz

Looking for a way to keep your kids informed without stressing them out? Enter KidNuz – a daily news podcast made just for kids! Created by four Emmy winning journalists, KidNuz delivers five minutes of fact-based, kid-friendly news without any of the violence, political commentary, or fear-inducing language that can be present in adult-oriented news media. Segments highlight stories of interest to kids and cover the latest in science, health, politics, sports, and pop culture. Young listeners can test their knowledge with a quiz at the end of each episode and join the KidNuz Club to receive a birthday shout out.

For: Ages 6-13
Where: Listen free on Kids Listen, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts
What: Daily news podcast for kids.

Million Bazillion

Kids have a lot of questions and those specific to money can be extra tricky! Million Bazillion is a new podcast from Marketplace and Brains On! was made to help answer those tough, sticky, uncomfortable questions kids have about money. Host Jed Kim and guests will investigate the history of money, negotiation skills, advertising, spending and saving, and more, all guided by kids’ questions. Episodes are brought to life with sound effects, storytelling, and silly jokes. Episodes are each about 23 minutes long and kids can submit their own questions for future episodes. “The show helps dollars make more sense!” Cha-ching!

For: Grades 3 and up
Where: Listen on Million Bazillion, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.
What: Podcast that answers kid questions about money and the economy.

Noodle Loaf

Noodle Loaf is the goofy, ingenious, music-themed podcast you didn’t realize you need in your life. Host and early music educator Dan Saks performs short (10-12 minute) music “lessons” designed to enrich and entertain. Listeners are asked to sing, rhyme, clap, and move along to Dan’s playful musical creations. “Noodlinos” can become a part of the show by having their adults submit recordings of them singing, talking, and telling jokes.

For: Ages 3-9
Where: Listen free on noodleloafshow.com, Kids Listen, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts.
What: Super silly, interactive, music education for young children.

Peace Out: Relaxation Stories for Kids

It’s more important than ever to take time out of our day to relax and recharge. Enter the Peace Out podcast and Chanel Tsang’s soothing voice as she guides young listeners through calming visualizations and breathing exercises. Short episodes explore different themes, often focusing on emotions (anxiety, fear, happiness) and the natural world (the water cycle, geodes, space). In response to the pandemic, Tsang has created five “Time to Pause” mini-episodes that give children (and their adults) five-minute calming exercises they can use throughout the day.

For: Prek-Adult
Where: Listen free on Bedtime FM, Kids Listen, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts
What: Guided visualization and breathing exercises that help children calm down and relax.

The Punies

Feeling the void of organized sports? Perhaps a listen to The Punies can help. Created and directed by NBA Champion Kobe Bryant, The Punies accompanies a group of diverse neighborhood friends, the “Good Ol’ Gang,” as they play a variety of sports together and learn important life lessons. Episodes mimic sports radio, with play-by-play commentary complete with humorous commercial breaks for fictional products. Engaging dialogue, original songs, and sound effects further enhance each episode.

For: Grades K-6
Where: Listen free on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts
What: Sports-themed, audio stories for kids

Brave Girls Virtual Storytime

The National Women’s History Museum invites you to take a “women’s history break” every day of the week with inspiring content highlighting specific women, movements, or time periods. Brave Girls Virtual Storytimes, new this May, share the stories of notable women with accessible and beautiful picture books. Upcoming readings include Drum Dream Girl by Margarita Engle and Power in My Pen: A Snippet of the Life of Ida B. Wells by Louie T. McClainn II. Each storytime includes a downloadable resource guide with glossary and discussion ideas to help draw connections between the past and present. NWHM@Home also offers short biographical videos and connecting STEAM activities that help bring women’s history to life. Remember brave girls keep on reading!

For: All ages
Where: National Women’s History Museum uploads readings each Wednesday by 4:00 pm to the Museum’s YouTube channel.
What: Read-alouds featuring historical, biographical picture books about notable women.

Coronavirus: A Book for Children

by Elizabeth Jenner, Kate Wilson and Nia Roberts (text) & Axel Scheffler (illustrations)

The talented folks over at Nosy Crow Publishing have released a free, illustrated e-book to help children better understand the 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and its impact on day to day life. Using expert input and kid-friendly language, the authors address pressing concerns, such as how people catch the virus, why people are so worried about it, and what we can do to help. A diverse cast of characters, emphasis on kindness, and charming illustrations by Axel Scheffler (the much-loved artist of The Gruffalo) sets this resource apart.

For: Grades PreK- 6
Where: Free from Nosy Crow to read, download, and print out here.
What: A free, digital children’s book about the 2019 novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).

Goodnight with Dolly

Dolly Parton created Imagination Library to inspire a love of reading by mailing books to the homes of millions of children. Now she is reading select Imagination Library books as bedtime stories in her new video series Goodnight with Dolly to offer comfort and reassurance to families during this strange time. The first story shared is the 90th Anniversary edition of “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper.

For: Grades Prek-3
Where: Videos will be released on Thursdays at 7:00 pm and are available on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter and the Imagination Library website. #goodnightwithdolly @dollyslibrary @dollyparton.

What: Singer, actress, book lover Dolly Parton reading bedtime stories.

James and the Giant Peach, with Taika and Friends

If a magical, giant peach grew overnight in your backyard, would you climb inside? Ride along with James and his new friends, Grasshopper, Ladybug, and Centipede, as they go on an adventure of a lifetime aboard a ginormous, rolling peach. Award-winning director Taika Waititi is joined by well-known actors to celebrate this classic story from author Roald Dahl. The entire book will be read over 10 episodes posted on YouTube every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6:00 pm and each reading is under 20 minutes.

For: Ages 5-11
Where: Roald Dahl YouTube page
What: Full reading of James and the Giant Peach by Taika Waititi and friends.

Junior Library Guild

Junior Library Guild is a collection development source that provides books, reviews, and recommendations to schools and libraries. They are offering free access to their emedia collection including ebooks for all ages, virtual author talks, and a special, original story for middle school readers, “Aiden Tyler, Quaran-teen.” A new chapter is written by author Rex Ogle and added each week.

For: Grades K-12
Where: Free, unlimited access is available through the Junior Library Guild website.
What: Collection of ebooks, author interviews, and more for all ages.

LeVar Burton Twitter Livestream

Actor and literacy advocate LeVar Burton will read a variety of stories live on Twitter throughout the month of April. Young children can tune in on Mondays at 12:00pm EST, young adults on Wednesdays at 6:00pm EST, and adults on Fridays at 9:00pm EST. As the host of Reading Rainbow and his own podcast, Levar Burton Reads, we cannot think of a better person for storytelling.

For: Prek-adult
Where: Twitter @LevarBurton #LeVarBurtonReads
What: Readings by celebrity LeVar Burton.

Mondays with Michelle Obama

Get ready to smile! PBS Kids, Penguin Young Readers, and Random House Children’s Books are collaborating with former First Lady, bestselling author, lawyer, and engaging, warm storyteller Michelle Obama to share read along videos. Every Monday at noon (EST), April 20-May 11, Michelle Obama will be sharing select children’s books with the world on YouTube and Facebook in an effort to promote reading together at home. Extension activities, tips, and more resources will also be available for parents to enhance shared reading. First up is The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. #ReadTogetherBeTogether!

For: Grades Prek-3rd
Where: Videos will be streamed live on the PBS Kids’ Facebook page and YouTube channel, and on Penguin Random House’s Facebook page Mondays at noon (EST). Videos will remain available after the live stream for rewatching.
What: Virtual stories with Michelle Obama!

Rooster and Kwame Present Picture Book Week